What term describes a significant and rapid increase in wind speed?

The term that describes a significant and rapid increase in wind speed is a squall. A squall is characterized by brief but intense periods of wind, often associated with changes in weather conditions, such as the passage of a cold front or developing thunderstorms. During a squall, wind speeds can increase dramatically, leading to sudden shifts in weather that can pose challenges for pilots.

In contrast, zonal flow refers to the general west-to-east motion of wind patterns in the atmosphere, which does not specifically indicate a rapid increase in wind speed. Gusts, while related to fluctuations in wind speed, are typically short bursts of wind that may not be as sustained or intense as a squall. The jet stream is a high-altitude, fast-moving air current that can influence weather patterns but is not directly defined by rapid increases in surface wind speeds. Thus, squall is the most appropriate term for describing sudden and substantial increases in wind speed.